Lampang Province

Lampang Province

Highlights The Thai Elephant Conservation Center is located in Lampang, where visitors can learn how to ride these majestic creatures and guide them to bathe in the river. If you wish, you can even take a jungle rest with your elephant. These intelligent animals have a lifespan similar to that of humans, but they are now an endangered species.

Elephants are considered sacred and majestic symbols in the hearts of the Thai people, as evidenced by the elegant white elephant on the flag of the ancient Kingdom of Siam. Even today, some Thais still imitate the warriors of old Siam by walking under an elephant’s belly, believing it brings them luck and strength. Visitors can also ride an elephant and sway through mountain passes, across streams, and deep into the jungle. To witness the astonishing strength of these animals, just watch them effortlessly carry heavy logs. Introduction Located 26 kilometers southeast of Chiang Mai, Lampang is known for its graceful environment and beautiful women. It is a hub of Burmese-style temples and the only province in Thailand that still uses horse-drawn carriages as a mode of transport. The Phra Dhat Hairpoonchai Temple (also known as Wat Phra Kaew Don Tao) features a grand main hall built in 1925, adorned with luxurious gold leaf on its front gates. Inside the main shrine, two bronze Buddha statues are enshrined. Wat Chedi Sao, famous for its 20 standing chedis, is another notable site. Legend has it that visitors who can correctly count all 20 stupas will be blessed with good fortune. Not far south of Lampang lies a village known as the center of Thailand’s cotton weaving industry. The area produces high-quality Thai cotton and houses about 2,000 hand-operated spinning machines, making it a renowned hub for cotton textiles.

Chiang Mai, Thailand